Dry and flaky skin after a tummy tuck

Question

I’ve noticed that dry and flaky skin are present after a tummy tuck in that area of skin. It’s not itchy or irritated, just peeling and flaky. I’ve also noticed this in pictures of others who have had this procedure done . Just curious.

Jennifer Lauren Crawford, MD · Answer

Sometimes skin that has been stressed by surgery and also was swollen can behave a bit differently from the norm.  It does frequently appear dry.  I allow patients to apply a moisturizing skin lotion after their incisions are fully healed and no longer raw in any way.  At some point it is expected (whether that be weeks or months down the road) for the skin to fully recover and appear normal.

Francis Johns, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.It is not uncommon to have some skin changes after surgery. The skin will eventually go back to normal. I would advise asking your surgeon what they want you to use on the skin before putting anything near or on the incision. Good luck with healing.

Patrick W. Hsu, MD, FACS · Answer

This is very common. The skin is severely traumatized in this operation and gets very swollen and is under great tension. Peeling is a result of the skin healing….out with the old and in with the new. It will pass and moisturizer is your friend.

Gianna Ramos, MD · Answer

Hello
Thanks for your question.
Yes this is completely normal. The skin suffer and this is the reaction. I recommend you to use moisturizing lotions and oils, but not on the incision. 
Good luck :)
Dra. Gianna Ramos

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Dry, flaky skin can occur after a tummy tuck due to the stress from surgery, the swelling, and the garment.  It is ok to use moisturizer on the skin.  Avoid the suture line unless it is completely closed.  Contact your surgeon if you have concerns.

Guillermo Lorenzo, MD · Answer

Hi, thanks for your questions.It is important after a tummy tuck, that the skin behaves dehydrated, losing its shine, so I recommend using oil or moisturizers, three days later. I hope that my answer will be of great help. Merry Christmas. Good luck and happy Christmas.
Member of the International Society of Aesthetic for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ISAPS)

Scott D. Green, MD · Answer

Yes, this can be common after surgery and I advise my patients they can start applying moisturizing cream to the dry and flaky area, after a week or so, but just to avoid the incisions. I would suggest to ask your surgeon prior to applying anything to the area to make sure this is protocol. 
Best of Luck

Terrence Murphy, MD · Answer

It is not unusual to have a temporary change in her skin after this kind of procedure. Moisturizers can help. Be sure to discuss it with your surgeon prior to using anything close to the incision.

Lissa Bootstaylor, MD · Answer

Happy Holidays!
It is common to have dry skin in the post-op period, the tummy tuck lifts the skin from its usual blood flow. This reduces oil production in the skin until the blood flow is restored. The bandages and garments add to the problem.Often combining skin creams with massage helps at this stage and is good for the skin and for the swelling. I would consult with your surgeon regarding skin care, garments and skin creams and massage.
I hope you found this answer helpful!
Lisa Bootstaylor,MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Richard P. Rand, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question. It’s not uncommon for your skin to become dry and flaky after a tummy tuck or other surgical procedure. This can be due to the procedure itself, or even wearing compression garments and bandages. Talk with your plastic surgeon about what creams or other topical treatments he or she recommends to help with dry skin.

Dry and flaky skin after a tummy tuck

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